Zimbabwe reschedule T20I, ODI series against Afghanistan due to surprising reason

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has decided to alter the schedule for the upcoming T20I and ODI series against Afghanistan National Cricket Team.

The decision to reschedule the matches was made by Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) to ensure that a large number of fans are present at the stadium during the fixtures and the atmosphere is electric.

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Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan T20I series to start on December 11

The T20I series between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan is all set to start on Wednesday, December 11 with the next two matches of the three-match series taking place on Friday, December 13, and Saturday, December 14.

Notably, the T20I series was earlier scheduled to begin on December 9 and the second and third matches were scheduled for December 11 and 12.

Meanwhile, the ODI matches between the Chevrons and the Afghans will be played on Tuesday, December 17, Thursday, December 19, and Saturday, December 21. Earlier, these matches were set to be held on December 15, 17 and 19.

All the T20I and ODI matches between the teams are scheduled to be played at the Harare Sports Club in Harare.

The Afghanistan tour of Zimbabwe also consists of a Test series where two matches are set to be played. There have been no changes made to the Test series as the Boxing Day Test will take place from 26 to 30 December at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo and the second Test will be played at Queens Sports Club from January 2 to 6.

Notably, the Boxing Day Test against Afghanistan will be the first such Test match that ZC will be hosting in 28 years, with the last one coming in 1996 against England.

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We understand the passion our fans have for the game - Givemore Makoni

The Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director Givemore Makoni talked about the changes made to the schedule in a statement released by the cricket board.

Givemore Makoni stated that they want to give a chance to passionate fans in the country to enjoy the matches from the stadium and make a good atmosphere at the venue.

Makoni added that moving some matches to the weekend 'ensures better access for spectators', which will lead to the stadiums being packed. He elaborated:

“We understand the passion our fans have for the game, and we want to give as many people as possible the chance to experience top-level cricket.

"Moving key matches to the weekend ensures better access for spectators, enhancing the atmosphere at Harare Sports Club.”

Revised schedule for ZIM vs AFG series:

1st T20I - Wednesday, 11 December

2nd T20I - Friday, 13 December

3rd T20I - Saturday, 14 December

1st ODI - Tuesday, 17 December

2nd ODI - Thursday, 19 December

3rd ODI - Saturday, 21 December

1st Test - 26 December to 30 December

2nd Test - 2 January to 6 January